Will Jordan’s Hamstring Tear Puts the Rest of His All Blacks Tour in Doubt

Will Jordan’s tour could be over after the All Blacks confirmed the winger suffered a minor hamstring tear against Scotland. The injury has left his availability for the remaining matches in doubt, even as the team holds out hope he might return before the end of its UK trip. Assistant coach Neil Barnes said the All Blacks were still hopeful Jordan could feature in the final fortnight, including tests against England and an opponent yet to be confirmed for the Nations Championship finale at Twickenham. But a hamstring problem can be difficult to recover from quickly, and the report notes that the 28-year-old may not play again this season. Jordan had already been ruled out of Sunday’s match against Wales in Cardiff. He has played on the right wing during coach Dave Rennie’s first campaign in charge, and his absence leaves the team weighing several alternatives for the back three. Rieko Ioane, Fehi Fineanganofo, Josh Moorby and Chay Fihaki are among the available options. Moorby has regularly featured on the left wing and appears likely to start there against England at Twickenham next Sunday. Ioane, who has mostly played centre during his career, came on for Jordan against Scotland in the 52nd minute, making his 92nd test appearance. Leicester Fainga’anuku is another possibility. He was selected in the 36-man squad as a loose forward, though the report says he could have a hybrid role, switching between openside flanker and the backline. Fineanganofo could also come into contention after an injury-disrupted first test campaign, following strong form for the Hurricanes in Super Rugby Pacific. The All Blacks are scheduled to face Wales at Principality Stadium in Cardiff before their remaining tour fixtures. Jordan’s recovery timeline will determine whether he can rejoin the side for the closing stretch.